UWA game ranger shoots resident dead

NAMISINDWA- Police in Namisindwa District are investigating circumstances under which a game ranger attached to Mt Elgon National Park allegedly shot dead one of the residents.

Moses Namonyo, 21, was a resident of Bukimatya village in Bumbo Sub-county.

He was allegedly shot while collecting firewood in the park on Sunday by an unidentified game ranger.

The Elgon region Police Commander, Mr Abraham Betongyeza confirmed the incident but declined to give details.

Mr Moses Wamoto Kigai, the Resident District Commissioner, said they are investigating the incident.

 “Investigations are ongoing to establish the exact cause of the shooting,” Mr Wamoto, said.

He said: “Even if the deceased was found in the park, this does not give the game ranger permission to kill him,” he said. 

The body has been taken to Mbale Municipal Council mortuary for a post mortem.

Mt Elgon Conservation Area Manager, Mr Fredrick Kiiza said the suspect was arrested and detained as investigations go on.

He, however, dismissed allegations that UWA game rangers brutalise and extort money from residents.

 Last month, a game ranger shot dead a resident at Bufuma trading centre in Bumayoka Sub- County in Bududa District

Bubulo East Member of Parliament, Mr Apollo Masika, said the game rangers are becoming a menace to residents.

He alleged that they have a tendency of extorting money from residents who are found in the game park.

Mr Peter Namonyo, a resident claimed that they give money to the rangers before being allowed to collect firewood.